About
I have been teaching privately for 28 years and currently teach at Union College in Schenectady. My teaching approach: It is my belief that mastery of the instrument and a thorough understanding of music is essential regardless of the style or genre of music one wishes to perform. Yes, I will teach beginners some simple chords so that they can strum a song or two--this affords the new student a sense of accomplishment. However, this is not the main thrust or goal of my teaching method. Please google me. My influences are: John Williams, Julian Bream, Andres Segovia, David Russell, Manuel Barrueco, My guitar lessons take place in: The teacher's studio Guitar Techniques: Guidance In Equipment Selection, Recording and Production, Scales and Exercises, Music Theory, Reading Music, Performance, Fingerstyle Your first guitar lesson with me might include the following: A first lesson entails finding where the student is not just with the instrument, but with musical knowledge. I do this by giving the student a simple piece to sight-read. If this is successfully completed, I present them with increasingly difficult scores. A guitar lesson with me might entail the following: I begin every student's lesson with a miniature version of their warm-up drills -- scales, arpeggios, legatos and reading drills. We then move on to whatever technical exercises are current or new. New repertoire comes next. If the student has a performance on the horizon, we will discuss performance etiquette and strategy. The qualities I look for in an ideal guitar student might include the following: The ideal student wants to learn music, not just the guitar. He or she must NEED to play, not just wish they could.
Photos and videos
Reviews
Bernadette W.
Bob B.
Stephen C.
Barry L.
Dave G.
Michele A.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
First: Establish where the student needs to begin his or her studies -- has the student any prior experience with the instrentun or with music performed on another instrument? What are the student's goals? Create a lesson plan for that student which will efficiently attain these goals.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I received my training at The Mannes College of Music in New York City, where my studies included theory, composition, ear-training, ensemble performance, keyboard and voice. Studies on my major instrument were conducted with the late Albert Valdes-Blain, renowned classical guitarist and gifted educator, and one-time pupil of the Master -- Andrés Segovia. I was also selected by a panel of professors at Mannes to participate in a year-long series of master classes with recording artist and concert recitalist Eliot Fisk.
I have been an adjunct at Union College in Schenectday for none years.
I am trained in classical guitar and lute and have performed for many years on these instruments. I have also played extensively in popular music in both live performance and in the recording studio.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
My rates are $45 per hour, $30 for a half hour. I recommend one lesson per week. I require payment at each lesson or payment for the month in advance, whichever is most convenient for the student. I require 24 hours cancellation notice or the missed lesson must be paid for.
How did you get started teaching?
I began reaching in 1977 while in college. I enjoy sharing what I have learned over the years.
What types of students have you worked with?
I have worked with chilldren (successfully!), retired 're-entry' players, professionals looking to expand their genre capabilities, high school and college students.